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Treating Kidney Failure

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a long and usually slow process where the kidneys slowly lose function. When the kidneys function at 15% or less, this is called kidney failure or end stage renal disease(ESRD).

When kidneys fail, harmful wastes build up in your body. When this happens, you will need treatment to replace the work of your failed kidneys. People facing kidney failure will require dialysisor a kidney transplant; these treatments are called renal (kidney) replacement therapy. Dialysis is the most common treatment option.

In this section

Dialysis

Dialysis is a life-sustaining process that cleans waste products from the blood, removes extra fluids and controls the body’s chemistry when a person’s kidneys fail. Dialysis patients typically require treatment on an ongoing basis unless they receive a kidney transplant.

Transplant

A kidney transplant is a major surgical procedure that places a kidney from another person into your lower abdomen. Though not for everyone, if you are in good general and emotional health and have financial resources, then it could be the right treatment option for you.